SH H 
j.flS 
1916 
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SH 11 

1916 
Copy 1 



DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE 

. W. S, BUREAU OF FISHERIES 

HUGH M. SMITH, Commissioner 



INVESTIGATION. EXPERIMENTS, AND SURVEYS RELATIVE 

TO THE AQUATIC RESOURCES OF THE UNITED STATES 

CONDUCTED BY THE BUREAU OF FISHERIES 

DURING THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED 

JUNE 30, 1916 



CONTENTS 

Page 

Sttidies of Marine Fishes 34 

Shellfish Investigations ....... 35 

Progress of Diamond-Back Terrapin Culture . , 37 

Surveys of Fishing Grounds . . . . . . 38 

Oceanographic Studies ....... 39 

Studies of Anadromous Fishes . . . , . * 41 

Investigations Relating to Fresh- Water Fishes . . 42 

Service of the Biological Laboratories .... 45 

Miscellaneous Investigations ..... 48 



[Extracted from the Report of the Commissioner of Fisheries 
to the Secretary of Commerce for the fiscal year ended June 30, 
1916, pages 34-49] 




Bureau of Fisheries Document No. 836a 



WASHINGTON 

GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE 

1917 



Monegrapi^ 



// 

n t ^ 

AQUATIC RESOURCES OF THE UNITED STATES. 
STUDIES OF MARINE FISHES, 

Notwithstanding the long existence of grea.t marine fisheries and 
the common assumption of their inexhaustibihty, the development 
of modem fisheries has been such as to call for the artificial propaga- 
tion of certain species and to create a demand for knowledge of the 
life histories, the habits, and the migrations of the important fishes. 
This knowledge is desired in order that we may determine with what 
impunity the fishing methods may be continually increased in extent 
and thoroughness, or what measures of protection may be appro- 
priate, and so that we may properly appraise the value and the possi- 
bilities of cultural operations as applied to marine species. The 
problem must be approached through a complex but systematic plan 
of study, and final results are not obtainable in a short time. Never- 
theless, the continued collecting of fishes at various places and in the 
different seasons, the persistent application of the methods of modern 
science to the details of structure that may be characteristic of differ- 
ent localities or ages or seasons or that may be indicative of migrations 
or other phenomena of life, and the careful consideration of the 
conditions and results of commercial fisheries will bring us finally to 
the attainment of a degree of precise knowledge that a few years ago 
we could not have anticipated. 

The investigation of the sea herring, which, as the basis of the 
herring and sardine industries, is one of the most important fishes of 
the North Atlantic coast, has been continued in connection with the 
oceanographic work of the schooner Grampus. The analysis of the 
data gathered has been pushed as rapidly as possible and it is ex- 
pected that the results will be ready for publication within a short time. 

The most important commercial fish of the South Atlantic and Gulf 
seaboard is the mullet. Careful studies pursued through temporary 
services in connection with the Beaufort laboratory have laid a 
definite and necessary basis for more comprehensive inquiries when 
it may be possible to carry them out. It is expected that a detailed 
report of the result of the studies can be published after the conclusion 
of one more season's work. 

An investigation of the habits and possible races of flounders has 
also been undertaken on the coast of New England, but as the study 
is only in its incipiency and the investigator has not yet been able to 
devote to it his entire time it is not now possible to report a definite 
degree of progress. 

For several years the Bureau has directed attention to the condition 
of the tuna fishery on the coast of southern California, which, with 
the canning industry based upon it, has shown such marked develop- 
ment in the last few years. The fishery and canning industries are 
subject to unfortunate vicissitudes because of the irregular appear- 
ance of the tuna in the waters accessible by the present methods of 
fishery. Nothing of a definite nature has been known as to the 
habits of the tuna, the causes that govern their appearance and dis- 
appearance, the parts of the ocean generally frequented by them, 
or the localities resorted to for purposes of breedmg. For nearly two 
years the Bureau has attempted to gain such information as was 

34 , ; 

FEB 19 I9ff 



>. EEPOET OP THE COMMISSIONEE OF FISHEEIES. 35 

1 obtainable tlirougli investigations conducted from shore or by the 
^ use of small boats. It was realized that the proper method of attack 
; was through investigations extending over a large area of the ocean 
and conducted through the instrumentality of a seagoing vessel. 
This was fortunately made possible in February, 1916, when Congress 
through an urgent deficiency bill provided an appropriation which 
enabled the Bureau to detail the steamer Albatross for special service 
in the tuna investigation. The first cruise was promptly begun, and 
on May 10 the vessel arrived at San Diego after spending three weeks 
m cruising along the coast of Lower California and several hundred 
miles farther south and west, as far as Los Coronados Islands. Other 
cruises followed this one, and the investigation was in progress as the 
fiscal year closed. From the middle of April to the middle of May 
there were no tuna along the Lower California peninsula from San 
Diego to Socorro Island and westward to Guadalupe Island. Two of 
the best practical tuna fishermen of San Diego accompanied the vessel 
on this cruise. In the latter part of May tuna were encountered off 
Lov/er California near San Geronimo Island, and near the San Benito 
Islands; none were found on a cruise extending west of San Diego 
150 miles. Durmg the month of June tuna were present ofl[ San 
Diego and San Pedro, although they were not taken in commer- 
cial quantities, this being attributed to the coldness of the surface 
water. The investigation has been somewhat hampered by the con- 
tmued prevalence of rough weather, but will be continued and 
prosecuted as actively as possible during the next fiscal year. 

The importance of a knowledge of the larval development of fishes 
was cited in the last annual report. Such studies have been continued 
both at the Woods Hole laboratory and in connection with the investi- 
gations in Chesapeake Bay. At the Woods Plole laboratory sub- 
stantial information was gained regarding 12 species, 6 of which are 
of direct commercial importance, namely, the tautog, cunner, scup, 
sea robin, whiting, butterfish, anchovy, menhaden, glut herring, silver- 
side, three-spined stickleback, and four-spined stickleback. For 
years the Bureau has endeavored to gain information regarding the 
breeding habits of the menhaden. With the knowledge gathered 
during the present fiscal year, the Bureau is now in better position to 
follow up the life history of the menhaden. 

Near the close of the fiscal year and in connection with the Chesa- 
peake Bay investigations, additional data were obtained regarding the 
eggs and larvae of the anchovy, hog choker, goosefish, and gray trout 
(squeteague) . Experiments with hatching of butterfish were attended 
with success. 

SHELLFISH INVESTIGATIONS. 

The oyster, as the most important food resource of our waters, has 
continued to command such attention as it was possible for the 
Bureau to bestow. Owing to the fact that oyster culture, where it 
is now practiced, has reached a relatively advanced stage of develop- 
ment and, where not practiced, is hindered by peculiar economic 
conditions, the problems of the industry are comparatively complex 
and difficult of solution. Lentil the close of the fiscal year 1916 the 
Bureau had not been in position to give the continued and effective 
attention to the oyster that it deserved. Recent action by Congress 
has to a large extent remedied this deficiency and more effective serv- 



36 REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF FISHERIES. 

ice to the oyster fishery may be expected in the future. This has been 
brought about by the estabUshment of several new positions carrying 
salaries that will attract and retain competent assistants. 

Meantime the Bureau has sought to attack such problemxS of oyster 
culture as were adapted to its means and facilities. Encouraging 
progress has been made in studies of the propagation of oysters, the 
nutrition of oysters, and the occurrence of phenomena of "greening" 
and "green gill." In the study of "green gill" the results have been 
of unusual interest and value. While no method of controlling the 
"green gill" has been determined, it seems well established that the 
green color is due to the presence of a particular diatom, one of the 
minute floating plants that form a large element of the food supply 
of oysters. This particular species of diatom is known as Navicula 
ostrearia, and is identical with the form which is abundant in the 
region of Marennes, France, and which gives to the oysters of that 
region the peculiar color and flavor which are so highly esteemed. 
It is not yet ascertained what are the causes of the peculiar abun- 
dance of this form in certain years and in certain localities, but when 
it is known to the public that the occurrence of "green ^ill" merely 
means that the oysters have attained a condition that is so highly 
esteemed in the markets of Europe much should be done to dispel 
the present prejudice which occasionally causes great financial loss 
to our planters. Instead of being dreaded or a cause of pecuniary 
loss, the "green gill" may be welcomed as giving the opportunity to 
supply a superior article at perhaps a premium in price. These state- 
ments do not apply to the oysters which are marked by greening of 
the entire body owing to the presence of certain mineral salts in the 
water. This is a distinct condition not easily confused with the 
well-known "green gill." 

The problems of oyster culture on the Pacific coast, where an indus- 
try of great possibilities is contending against peculiar natural diffi- 
culties, have received recognition, although not as yet in a manner 
commensurate with the actual needs. Some support has been given 
to investigations being pursued in Puget Sound, and the progress 
attained has been such as to justify the Bureau at the close of the 
fiscal year in arranging to extend a substantially increased measure 
of financial aid. 

The remarkable growth of the blue-crab fishery during recent years 
has made protective action seem imperative, and the Bureau has 
been repeatedly importuned for counsel as to the propriety and 
effectiveness of specific measures proposed and for information regard- 
ing the habits and life history of the crab. Since the blue crab is 
migratory, passing at different stages of its life cycle from the waters 
of one State into those of another and going from the bays to the 
ocean and back, the Federal . Government is the only agency which 
can properly and effectively complete the necessary investigations. 
The result of careful attention to the matter has been to perfect before 
the close of the year an arrangement under which competent services 
are secured for attacking the study in a thorough manner. 



REPOKT OP THE COMMISSIONER OF FISHERIES. 



37 



PROGRESS OF DIAMOND-BACK TERRAPIN CULTURE. 

The success which has previously been attained in the experiments 
in terrapin culture has been continued in the past year in even more 
marked degree. It is timely to summarize some of the more impor- 
tant results at the Beaufort laboratory. 

(1) Perhaps the most interesting development of the year is the 
fact that the three oldest broods of terrapin that were hatched in the 
experimental pounds and grown in captivity have produced eggs. 
The two oldest broods, one of which had been winter-fed during the 
first season while the other had been permitted to hibernate, began 
laying in 1915 and the eggs hatched successfully. The terrapin of 
the hatch of 1911 laid eggs in 1916, before the close of the fiscal year. 
These significant inferences may be made: (a) That terrapin born 
and reared in confinement develop in a normal way and will repro- 
duce their kind; (h) that the reproductive cycle may be completed 
in six years, even though the terrapin hibernate as in nature; (c) that 
by preventing hibernation and forcing growth through the first winter 
by feeding m a heated house the maturity as well as the growth of the 
terrapin may be advanced by one year, so that a new generation is 
started in five years rather than in six. 

(2) The adult breeding stock of terrapin has from year to year 
steadily increased in productivity, and there is ground for belief that 
the adult breeders have not yet reached the maximum capacity for 
reproduction. The following figures show the number of young pro- 
duced by adult breeders during each of the past four years and also 
the average number per female yielded by the original stock of 
breeders : 









Average 






Number of 


number per 




Year 


young from 


female of 






all adult 


original 






breeders. 


breeding 
stock. 


1912 


1 326 


12 81 


1913 


1,506 


14.52 


1914 


1 690 


15 23 


1915 


2,128 


21 43 







Those terrapin which have been longest in captivity produced in 
1915 an average of 21.43 young for each female. 

(3) The value of winter feeding during the first season is well 
established by the increased rate of growth, the shortening of the time 
required to attain reproductive maturity, and the very low rate of 
mortality. The death rate has never been so low as during the winter 
of 1915-16. Among 700 terrapin fed on fresh food the loss was about 
6i per cent, while among those fed on salted food the loss was about 
8J per cent. The death rate in hibernating stock was 13 per cent. 
The cost of food for winter feeding at Beaufort varies from 3 to 15 
cents per 1,000 young terrapin per day, according as salt fish, fresh 
fish, or oysters are used. Assuming 10 cents as an average daily 
expenditure per 1,000 terrapin, the cost of food for 1 terrapin for a 
period of 5 months in the first winter would be 1^ cents. 



38 EEPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF FISHERIES. 

(4) The death rate among terrapin after the first season is so small 
as to be nearly negligible. It is found to be about 1 per cent in the 
second year, diminishing with age to one-half per cent and less. The 
principal mortality occurs in the first season, and is then found to be 
chiefly among the "runts," which should probably be culled out in 
ordinary practice. While the death rate has been as high as 20 to 25 
per cent during the first season, it has now been reduced, partly 
through improved methods of sanitation, to less than 10 per cent. 
The losses are remarkably low when it is considered that deaths occur 
principally when terrapin are very young and before they have 
become a source of expense, and that the productivity of the terrapin 
is such that even a loss of 30 per cent at this stage could readily be 
compensated for by increasing the numbers hatched and saved for 
rearing. So far as regards disease and death rate the rearing of 
terrapin is a matter of much less difficulty than the raising of poultry. 

(5) The history of our experiments during many years gives 
strong grounds for belief that domestication of terrapin is accom- 
panied by increasing productivity and diminishing disease and 
mortality. Our experience indicates the advisability of retaining a 
select brood stock for a rather indefinite period, instead of adopting 
new breeders from year to year, as might be done in stock raising. 
Some of the breeders have been in captivity for about 14 years. 

It may be noted that the experiments in terrapin culture have 
not the nature of small laboratory tests but are carried out upon 
such a scale as to be comparable to commercial operations. It is 
possible also to check our results against those obtainable in a large 
focal commercial venture which has adopted methods based upon 
those followed in the Bureau's work. From this it appears that the 
various results gained in the Bureau's experimental work are not to 
be taken as exceptional, but that they are, in a general way, typi- 
cal of what may be expected in cultural operations conducted accord- 
ing to sound principles and with the exercise of proper care. 

There are now about 3,000 terrapins under observation and clas- 
sified in more than 25 experiments which are being directed to obtain 
definite answers to practical questions that yet demand attention 
and justify the continuance of the investigations. Among these 
are: What is the proper proportion to maintain between males and 
females, and what are the best conditions for prolificness in eggs and 
for successful hatching? What are the possibilities of improving 
rate of growth by selection, and what are the opportunities for pro- 
moting economy through proper culling or other methods? These 
are only some of the practical questions which warrant further inves- 
tigations. 

SURVEYS OF FISHING GROUNDS. 

Some further work has been done in extending the known limits of 
the blackfish grounds off the coast of North Carolina. The Bureau 
maintains a buoy on the principal grounds, which is of service to 
fishermen both in locating this particular ground and as a bearing 
from which to find other grounds. The fishery is not developed in 
proportion to the evident possibilities, owing partly to the lack of 
suitable boats and partly to the unwillingness of local fishermen to 
engage in operations at any distance from the shore. One or two 
crews have, however, taken advantage of the opportunities and the 



EEPOET OF THE COMMISSIONER OF FISHEEIES. 39 

fishery was regularly followed through the winter and spring of 1915- 
16 with results that were very satisfactory to the fishermen and the 
vessel owners. 

Tlie survey of halibut grounds lying off the coasts of Oregon and 
Washington was continued by the steamer Mhatross during the first 
three months of the fiscal year. The first trip of the Albatross was 
to grounds off the coast of Washington from Grays Harbor to Flat- 
tery Banks, but the abundance of ground and blue sharks rendered 
the location unpromising for the estabhshment of a fishery at that 
time. Two especially favorable halibut bottoms were discovered, 
one 31 miles west of Grays Harbor and the other 37 miles S. by W. 
from the UmatiUa I^ightship. 

The second trip covered the same region by lines of sounding 
intended to determine the possible existence of offshore banks rising 
from the deep water. One such bank was located as apparently the 
top of a submerged mountain, rising 6,000 feet from the floor of the 
ocean. The depth ranged from 525 to over 830 fathoms. The bank 
is not shoal enough for fishing, but it suggests the possible existence of 
other banks that might be of greatei- practical importance. The 
location of the bank is about 278 miles from Cape Flattery Light, the 
latter bearing N. 66° E. 

A third trip covered the region off the Columbia River and south 
therefrom as far as Cape Meares. Good halibut bottom was found 
S. 71° W. of Columbia River Lightship, 17 miles out. South along 
the 100-fathom curve to Cascade Head good bottom was noted for 
nearly the entire distance in 110 to 120 fathoms. A patch of suitable 
bottom was located 22 miles northwest of Cape Meares Light in 94 fath- 
oms. The largest ground discovered by the Albatross on this trip lies 
between Tillamook Head and Cape Falcon, 28 to 30 miles from the 
coast. The bottom is of coarse and fine gravel, black sand, and 
granular shale, and an abundance of life was noted at the surface 
of the water. Important hydrographic observations were made and 
reported to the Coast and Geodetic Survey and to the Navy Depart- 
ment. A report of the halibut survey, with charts, will soon be 
published. 

OCEANOGRAPHIC STUDIES. 

If we were interested to know the capacity of certain lands for 
the support of particular kinds of animals; if we wished to ascertain 
the causes of the natural movements of such animals; or if we were 
to determine upon a proper policy of handling our stock in governance 
of their capture, or in endeavors to increase their numbers by cultural 
methods, we could not neglect to consider the character of the land 
in its various parts, its yield in vegetation small and large. 

Similar inquiries, roughly s]:)eaking, when apj^lied to the ocean 
constitute the science of oceanography. However it may appear to 
the eye, the ocean is not one great homogeneous body of water, but 
is marked by a diversity such as we are familiar with upon the land. 
Variations in depth, in saltness, in temperature, or in richness of 
animal and plant life are always encounterable, whethei' we proceed 
from the shores to the open sea, from the surface to the bottom, from 
east to west or north to south, from any one geographic region to 
another. Tliere are variations from year to 3'ear, even from season 
to season; there exist veritable deserts where abundant fish might 



40 REPOET OF THE COMMISSIONER OF FISHERIES. 

starve from want of food, contrasted with zones of plenty. There are 
currents and counter currents and blendings of different waters. 
In one geographic locaUty, waters flowing from tropica] regions and 
laden with characteristic animals and plants may overlie waters 
emanatmg from arctic domains and carrying their peculiar types of 
living things. If we do not have knowledge of such conditions, we 
can not determine whether a condition of extreme paucity of fish life 
such as was conspicuous on our eastern shores in the summer of 1916 
is an indication of exhaustion of the jfisheries or is an inevitable con- 
sequence of observable oceanographic abnormalities that can not be 
affected by man's operations; we will not be able to understand 
what general movements of fishes or variations in local abundance 
of fishes are attributable to unwise human operations and what are 
properly to be expected as a reflection of normal phenomena of nature. 

Oceanographic studies are not new in this or other countries; and 
extensive data have been gained by the Bureau at various times 
during many years, but within the past few years the Bureau has 
planned for better coordination of such studies as could be conducted 
within its means. Operations have been pursued intensively in re- 
stricted regions, so that a completed exploration might be made and 
relations established with a degree of definiteness that would make it 
possible to deduce some practical conclusions. 

The investigation of waters off the Atlantic coast, primarily in 
the Gulf of Maine and southward to the Grand Banks, has been 
continued in connection with studies of the life history and habits of 
the herring and other fishes. The schooner Gramj)us was detailed 
to this work v/ith an assistant from the office in active charge of the 
observations, while the investigation was under the fortunate direc- 
tion of a skilled oceanographer whose services were available to the 
Bureau. The results gained during preceding years have been made 
public from time to time and a final report may be expected within a 
short while. 

Near as the Chesapeake Bay is to the center of administration and 
important as its fisheries are, we have been without systematic and 
detailed knowledge of the physical and biological features of its 
waters and of the effect of such conditions upon the constant move- 
ments and varying abundance of important fishes. Beginning in 
October, 1915, the steamer Fish HawJc v/as detailed to a general in- 
vestigation of the Chesapeake Bay under the direction of a well- 
equipped assistant. At intervals of a month or six weeks there have 
been cruises over the bay, while observations of various sorts were 
made and material collected for later careful study. The investiga- 
tion was by no means confined to technically oceanographic subjects, 
but a number of useful inquiries were embraced in the general scope 
of work, and many valuable services rendered. The existence of 
resources in hydroids, or "sea moss," the basis of a possible new 
industry was demonstrated; the spawning habits and the life his- 
tories of fishes were studied; experiments v/ere made with the propa- 
gation of certain species; crab fishermen were induced to experiment 
successfully with use of pickled dogfish and shark meat as bait, 
and a probable use established for a fishery product that had hitherto 
been wasted. The United States National Museum, upon invitation 
from this Bureau, also took advantage of an unusual opportunity 
to add to its natural history collections. The survey must be ex- 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF FISHERIES. 41 

tended into the next fiscal year before it can reach a stage of com- 
pletion. 

Each important vessel, where engaged in other primary investiga- 
tions, has taken advantage of the opportunities for recording hydro- 
graphic observations as far as consistent with the economical prose- 
cution of its immediate objects. Thus data of some value have been 
reported by the steamer Albatross while pursuing special studies of 
the western coast and by the steamer Fish Hawk while working off the 
coast of North Carolina. 

STUDIES OF ANADROMOUS FISHES. 

Among the most highly esteemed of our food fishes are those that 
spend the greater part of their lives in the ocean, but at one stage 
enter the rivers for the purpose of reproduction. Such are the 
salmons, the striped bass, the shad, and the sturgeons. Crowding as 
they do at one particular season into certain restricted channels, 
namely, the river courses of our coastal slopes, they become the more 
readily an easy prey to man's pursuit. Unless the greatest foresight 
and restraint are exercised in the fishery, and the methods of arti- 
ficial propagation are resorted to, such fishes are certainly doomed to 
rapid diminution, if not complete disappearance. The absolute 
abundance of anadromous fishes is too easily overestimated. Take 
all the shad which even in past times entered our rivers and strew 
them widely over both land and water of the coastal plain, and their 
"abundance" would be lost to view; or, as may indeed be done in 
nature, scatter them over the continental slope beneath the ocean waters 
and they become one of the rarer fishes of the sea. There is little 
reason to wonder that a shad is so seldom taken in the ocean fishery 
followed off the greater portion of our coast. It would have to be an 
extraordinary condition, such as abundant food, perhaps, that would 
bring shad together in a particular region of the sea that would per- 
mit an ocean fishery for shad to be carried on. Such, indeed, appears 
to be the case of certain regions off the northeastern coast where 
"sea-run shad" become a feature of the local markets. What is the 
origin of such shad ? Are they a distinct race, or are these the shad 
that were bred in southern rivers ? The extent and directions of 
migration of the fish are questions of vital interest. To what extent 
are the runs of one river affected by fishing operations in another ? 
In what degree does artificial propagation in one stream yield returns 
of value to another ? These are all kindred questions or aspects of 
one general problem for each anadromous species. 

Notwithstanding the attention which has been devoted to the 
shad during so many years, the paucity of explicit knowledge is 
keenly felt. Early in the fiscal year the Bureau instituted a com- 
prehensive investigation of the shad, hoping that the application of 
newer methods of investigation may afford the key by which the 
mysteries may be unlocked. Beginning with the St. Johns River 
in Florida in January, the investigator has worked up the coast,^ 
visiting the principal shad streams as nearly as possible at the time 
when the fish are arriving from the sea. By the close of the fiscal 
vear he had reached New England, where studies were being made 
both of the native shad of Mame and the sea shad of the waters 
north of Cape Cod. Many questions have received attention, 

71823—17 2 



42 REPORT OP THE COMMISSIONER OP PISHERIES. 

although the primary purposes have been to determine if shad of 
different rivers or of different brood regions present distinguishable 
racial differences and to obtain information as to the extent of the 
coastwise movements of the fish. Many data have been accumulated 
and many specimens secured, all of which must form the basis of 
subsequent detailed studies before exact conclusions can be drawn. 

Associated with the shad and herring and having similar habits is 
the glut herring, a species of considerable abundance but one which 
until recently found only a limited market in the localities in which 
'taken. The past few years have witnessed a marked increase in 
value and diminution in numbers. During the past season experi- 
ments were made by an assistant in cooperation with fish culturists 
to ascertain the best methods of handling and hatching the eggs, 
and the results have indicated that the artificial propagation of the 
species on a large scale is feasible. 

The detailed study of the life history of the salmon of the Sacra- 
mento and Columbia Rivers has been continued and the field work 
is practically concluded. With the study of accumulated data and 
the preparation of the report during the ensuing fiscal year, it is 
expected that conclusions will be reached that will guide our fish- 
cultural operations to a stage of greater efficiency. In the direction 
of these studies the investigator fias had not only the benefit of the 
most expert counsel but the sympathy and suggestions of practical 
fish culturists. 

INVESTIGATIONS RELATING TO FRESH-WATER FISHES. 

The field of fresh-water, fish investigations has been too little 
touched, although the immediate opportunities of domestic fish 
culture are probably greatest among fresh-water forms. No one 
assumes that the great complex of streams and abundant lakes and 
ponds are productive to their maximum capacity, but rarely is due 
care taken to conserve in practicable ways the conditions in them 
favorable to the growth and propagation of fish. This phase of the 
general problem of fish production is not yet adequately realized 
nor are the principles satisfactorily developed. 

That the streams, lakes, and ponds should be stocked and restocked 
with fish is an ever growing demand which indicates the widespread 
interest in such fisheries, whether they serve as a means of recrea- 
tion or as a source of food. The stocking and restocking of waters 
is, however, not usually the principal desideratum. In specific 
instances the actual condition to be relieved may be due to an over- 
abundant stock. Just as agriculture has long since passed the stage 
where increased production is sought primarily through the planting 
of more seed in a given area, so it is incmnbent to give proper atten- 
tion to promoting a favorable condition for the growth of fish, look- 
ing intelligently to the maintenance of suitable condition of physi- 
cal environment, abundance of food, proper association of species, 
and a correct proportioning of numbers and variety of fishes to the 
biological capacity of the water. 

The fishery problems of fresh water are undoubtedly simpler than 
those of the seas, but they are certainly less directly approachable 
than the problems of agriculture which have met their solutions. 
It is not surprising, therefore, that, throughout the country in mat- 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF FISHERIES. 43 

ters of fish culture, there is as yet too little serious endeavor to find 
real causes or to apply appropriate remedies. Year by year the 
Bureau is devoting more careful and fitting attention to the prob- 
lems of fresh-water fisheries, and some of its principal activities in 
this field may be referred to. 

The problem of fish culture, at least as referring to pond fishes, 
is primarily one of food supply. Our knowledge of the food of 
fishes is as yet seriously inadequate. The food taken by fishes 
varies with the species, with size and age of the fish, with the season 
of the year, and with the abundance of the various kinds of food 
materials present in different bodies of water. A few observations 
in one locality or at one season of the year afi^ord no criterion for 
the conclusions that we may seek to drav/ for an appraisal of the pos- 
sibilities of fish production in any body of water, for an understand- 
ing of the variations in the sizes attained by a given species of fish 
in different bodies of water, and for the direction of our efforts to 
promote an abundent and reasonably constant supply of food mider 
all conditions subject to control. 

One of the investigations of the food of fishes that has been pur- 
sued comprises an examination of a number of perch taken from 
each of two lakes in Wisconsin during each week in the year. At 
the same time collateral studies have been made of the food of many 
of the important fishes, their habits and interrelations. Some of the 
results have been submitted for publication, while other reports are 
in preparation. The accumulation of such data is not of theoretical 
interest; it is indispensable to a purpose, for it must lead eventually 
to intelligent conclusions as to the highest possibilities in rearing 
fishes and the methods of realizing such possibilities. 

At the Fairport station several special fish-food studies are being 
actively pursued. In connection with the experiments in rearing 
buffalofishes, examinations are systematically made to determine the 
food taken at all sizes and all stages. Investigation of the food of 
all small fishes in the experimental ponds are being conducted in 
connection with parallel studies of the available foods in the ponds. 
Systematic studies are being made of the aquatic insect life. Experi- 
ments are also being directed at the problem of promoting an abund- 
ant growth of food organisms by methods of fertilizing the water or 
otherwise. 

The investigation of the habits and movements of fishes in the 
Mississippi River with especial reference to the obstruction of the 
river by the dam at Keokuk has been continued throughout the fiscal 
year. Only tentative conclusions have as yet been reached, but the 
progress of the investigation has been such that it may be hoped to 
present a full report within another year. 

Within the yeW there has been completed a report embodying the 
results of an earlier investigation of the Rangeley Lakes of Maine. 
These have for many years been among the more widely known for 
their game fishes, and the investigation was undertaken to gain 
information that might serve not only as a guide to fish-cultural 
development of these particular waters but as a basis for the adop- 
tion of a proper policy with regard to other lakes. The report 
comprises an unusual body of information regarding \hQ, habits and 
relations of many important food and game fishes. 



44 EEPOET OF THE COMMISSIONER OF FISHERIES. 

There is in progress and now drawing to a conclusion an investi- 
gation of the habits of the common smelt, a fish which is of no little 
economic importance, partly as an object of fishery itself and more 
significantly as a source of food for the larger food and game fishes. 

It is generally known that many species of fish are destructive to 
the larvae of mosquitoes, but, where public health is involved, it 
becomes of high importance to laiow definitely what fish are most 
effective in mosquito extermination and under v/hat conditions is 
their efficiency greatest. In many cases, where the usual treatments 
of waters are impracticable because of expense or other sacrifice 
involved, it is convenient to rely upon the agency of small fish, 
provided there can be assurance that the result sought will be fully 
accomplished. It is possible that in particular cases partial failure 
to eliminate all mosquito larvae can be turned into complete success 
through the introduction of other kinds of fishes that will be adapted 
to the particular condition of the pond or through measures taken 
to so change those conditions that the fish will have a better chance 
to obtain their prey. It is necessary then to study the comparative 
efficiency of the different species of fish and to ascertain how the 
efficiency of the more suitable species is affected by the various 
conditions of depth, vegetation, and debris. 

At the beginning of the fiscal year the Bureau issued an economic 
circular giving an account of the various species of fish that play 
an important part in mosquito extermination, and at the same time 
it entered into cooperation with the Bureau of Entomology for a 
careful investigation directed to the ends just stated. The inquiry 
will be continued through the next fiscal year. 

In addition to its functions in mussel culture, and without hin- 
drance to them, the Fairport station is being utilized effectively in 
fish-cultural experimental work. Some of these experiments are 
being conducted with the game fishes that are favorite objects of 
cultural efforts. The purpose of these experiments is primarily to 
ascertain the conditions under which the fish may be reared to a 
market size in greatest numbers. 

During the spring of 1915 unusual success was attained in the 
hatching of the eggs of the buffalofish after artificial fertilization. 
A number of the fry were placed in a new station pond to be kept 
under observation. Notwithstanding the raw state of the pond and 
other unfavorable conditions, more than 25 per cent of the fish, 
or about 45,000, were found to have survived when the pond was 
drawn in the fall, and some had attained a length of over 6 inches. A 
good many of the fingerlings were liberated and others were retained 
for further growth. A proportion of loss was experienced during the 
winter season, but the experiments are still in progress. Not all has 
been obtained that could be desired, but, as the first attempt at rear- 
ing buffalofish in capitivity, the success is such as to recommend the 
continued experimentation with a form that is well known as a com- 
mercial food fish of large size and of diminishing abundance. 

Quite interesting results have been attained too with the channel 
catfish {Ictalurus pundatus), a form that has hitherto baffled all 
attempts at propagation. Just at the close of the fiscal year the 
first successful attempt at propagation was in progress, but the fur- 
ther history of the experiment is a matter for a later report. 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF FISHERIES. 45 

The Bureau is continually called upon for advice in the solution 
of problems confronting those who are either engaging in fish culture 
as a private venture or who are interested in developing the possi- 
bilities of certain public waters. A station such as that at Fairport, 
where the hatching and rearing of fishes to a size suitable for the 
table can go hand m hand with systematic scientific observation and 
experunent, renders a long needed and invaluable service in pro- 
viding an experience supplemental to that gained in practical fish- 
cultural work. 

During the yesiT the Bureau conducted a survey of the Bonneville 
System of Utah with reference primarily to its fishery resources 
and incidentally to the problems of fish protection in irrigation 
ditches. This system comprises Utah Lake and Provo, Beaver, 
Bear, Logan, and other rivers. Interesting and unexpected dis- 
coveries were made of several new species of whitefish that appear 
to be indigenous to the system, and all of which are good food fish. 
Utah Lake is famous for its suckers and carp, tons of which are some- 
times shipped to eastern markets, some going even to New York. 
Generally speaking, however, the fish of the Bonneville System are 
not plentiful enough to be of great commercial value except locally. 
With the development of power plants and the growth of agriculture, 
they are certain to become less numerous, unless due care is taken 
to conserve the fish supply as far as may be done consistently with 
the pursuit of other objects of greater economic importance. 

SERVICE OF THE BIOLOGICAL LABORATORIES. 

The seaside laboratories, which opened for the summer season just 
before the close of the last fiscal year, were in active operation until 
about the middle of September, 1915. Various investigations were 
pursued chiefly through the employment of the temporary services of 
specialists in several lines. 

The Woods Hole, Mass., laboratory is intended to serve as a 
nucleus for investigations of more direct reference to the New Eng- 
land and Middle Atlantic fisheries as well as for more technical 
investigations of general application. In some respects this estab- 
lishment is better adapted for technical studies than any other lab- 
oratory of the Bureau, and it is hoped to improve the facilities for 
biophysical and biochemical studies that form essential phases of 
<5ertain fishery investigations. The lack of a j^ermanent scientific 
staff for this station causes its scientific operations to be confined 
largely to the summ.er season, when temporary professional services 
are most readily available. The principal topics of investigation 
during the past season may be cited. There have been studies of 
oysters, elsewhere referred to, which related chiefly to nutrition, 
greening, and propagation. The studies of nutrition had especial 
reference to the discovery of methods of fattening that might not 
be open to the objections properly raised against some of the com- 
mon practices. The investigation of greening, directed at a condi- 
tion which has served as a serious blight on oyster culture in certain 
localities, and of "green gill," an entirely distinct phenomenon, was 
also associated with this laboratory. Studies of the larval develop- 
ment of fishes have been followed with results narrated elsewhere. 



46 EEPOET OF THE COMMISSIONER OF FISHERIES. 

Other subjects of investigation were the parasites of fishes and the 
effect of such parasites upon the vitality of the individuals; the 
effect upon fishes of certain mineral salts which may be present either 
as a normal constituent of some spring waters or as a consequence of 
pollution; the metabolism of fishes and ox^^gen utihzation, subjects 
which have a bearing upon the propagation and rearing of fishes; 
the bacteriology of fishes; the biology and the utilization of sea 
mussels; and the possibilities of utilization of other waste fishes. 
As usual the facilities of the laboratoiy were extended to a few inde- 
pendent investigators whose studies were pursued without expense 
to the Bureau. 

The Beaufort, N. C, laboratory is a center for investigations that 
look to the better development of the fisheries of the South Atlantic 
coast. Allusion has been made to the study of the mullet and to 
the survey of fishing grounds which has revealed opportunities for 
ofl'shore winter operation and contributed to the development of 
a fishery that is as yet unduty limited. The successful experiments 
in terrapin culture are also more fully described elsewhere. Special 
attention is being devoted to the breeding habits of fishes, the larval 
development of fishes, and, as opportunity offers, to the possibilities 
of propagation of certain sea fishes which support important fisheries 
in the South Atlantic States. Interesting observations were made 
and a report was prepared dealing with the habits of certain species 
of small fish that are denizens of brackish and fresh v/aters and 
that are serviceable in the extermination of mosquito larvse and 
hence in the maintenance of public health. 

Efficient study of the food of fishes and of the movements of 
fishes, as directed by the search for food, or the avoidance of enemies^ 
demands an exact knowledge of the forms of animal and plant life 
which may be encountered in the local waters or which may»be found 
in the stomachs of the fishes. Careful systematic studies of certain 
groups of animal and plant life have therefore been in progress for 
some time. During the past fiscal year there was completed for 
publication a valuable report on the sharks and rays of the Beaufort 
region; and another comprehensive report dealing with the decapod 
Crustacea, a group that includes the crabs and other forms of most 
direct economic usefulness, has also been completed and submitted 
for publication. Systematic studies of certain groups of fish para- 
sites have been completed. A report of the algae of the region is 
nearing completion, while the diatoms and protozoa, among the 
lowest forms of minute plant and animal life, as well as the higher 
fishes, are now subjects of investigation. 

In the assurance that the development of commercial fisheries will 
soon demand more strongly the conservation of important shellfish, 
serious attention is being given to the life history of the quahaug or 
hard clam and the principal crustacean forms. 

The Beaufort laboratory has also been found a favorable place 
for the prosecution of certain special problems that have not a 
particular regional significance. At this place there are pursued 
investigations of the toxicity of certain chemicals to marine borers 
and of the protection of wood against these disastrous pests, in which 
studies the Bureau has enjoyed the cooperation of the forest products 
laboratory of the Forest Service and the sympathetic interest of 
railway companies and other commercial bodies. 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF FISHERIES. 47 

The enlargement of the island upon which the laboratory is located, 
in consequence of the deposition of material dredged by the War 
Department from nearby channels; the recent additions to the 
building authorized by Congress; and the grading and sodding of 
lar^e portions of the island have added greatly to the appearance 
and to the stability of the property. The station would be of much 
greater practical service to the fishing industries of the coast were it 
enabled, through the provision of an adequate permanent staff, to 
carry on more extensive permanent experimental work. Investi- 
gations temporarily pursued serve a useful purpose in laying the basis 
for practical work, but it is usually only through continuous expe^^i 
mentation that the inevitable difficulties of new practical work are 
discovered and successfully overcome, as must finally be done to 
pave the way to substantial benefits. The terrapin experiments 
offer a concrete example of a businesslike mode of procedure in 
fishery experiment work, while other opportunities are awaiting 
with perhaps greater possibilities. 

The Key West, Fla., laboratory becomes nearer to realization with 
the developments of the past fiscal year, during which the Govern- 
ment has assumed title to the site and Congress has provided the 
necessary additional appropriation for its construction. The pre- 
liminary sketch plans were completed and at the close of the year 
the final plans were in course of preparation. Bids are expected to 
be sought by advertisement at no distant date. The laboratory site 
is properly chosen near a base of supplies accessible by water and rail 
and the seat of important commercial fisheries. Situated as it is, 
entirely remote from the influence of fresh-water rivers and on the 
thoroughfare from gulf to ocean, the conditions should be eminently 
suitable for work with marine forms. It is hoped to employ the most 
substantial method of construction, not only because the peculiar 
conditions of the geograpliic location demand it but because it is 
regarded as sound business policy to provide against the continued 
necessity for repairs and unnecessary operating costs. 

When this laboratory is in operation and provided witii a staff of 
trained investigators, the service rendered by the Bureau to the 
fisheries of the Gulf and extreme South Atlantic coasts will be of 
more palpable benefit. Some of the evident opportunities are to be 
found in the study of the artificial propagation of the green turtle, 
the investigation of such useful forms as the spiny lobster and the 
stone crab, the fostering of the struggling industry of sponge culture, 
and the study of the important food fishes of the Gulf of Mexico and 
Straits of Florida. 

The Fairport, Iowa, station, having a permanent scientific staff, 
is in active operation during the entire year. During the summer 
season its staff is temporarily augmented in order that particular 
problems arising from the regular investigations at this station or 
related to the other activities of the Bureau may be attacked by 
specialists in particular lines of study. As at the marine laboratories, 
the facilities of the station are extended to approved independent 
investigators, who, as table occupants, pursue their researches without 
cost to the Government. 

The propagation of mussels, the fish-cultural experiment work, 
the investigations of the food of fishes, and certain studies of condi- 
tions in the Mississippi River, as elsewhere referred to, are among the 



48 REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF FISHERIES. 

subjects under consideration at Fairport during the year. One of the 
investigations pursued at this laboratory was of particular interest 
in estabhshing the fact that mussels may absorb nutritive sub- 
stances in solution in the water not only through the alimentary tract 
but directly through the surface cells. Other studies in progress 
relate to the propagation of species of mussels not yet susceptible to 
practical cultural methods, the relations of fishes and mussels in 
nature, the possibilities of rearing mussels without parasitism, the 
food of mussels, the copepod parasites of fishes, and the constitution 
of the blood of fishes. 

The equipment of the station in ponds and other facilities for the 
efficient prosecution of its work has been materially increased during 
the year. A bulletin descriptive of the equipment and functions 
of the Fairport station has just been published. 

MISCELLANEOUS INVESTIGATIONS. 

The Bureau has taken advantage of an opportunity to utilize the 
services of a specialist traveling abroad to secure information regard- 
ing recent significant developments in foreign pearl fisheries and 
expects to have a report available within the next year. 

The imperative necessity for seeking new sources of potash for use 
in agricultural and commercial enterprises has led to the sudden 
development of an industry of kelp harvesting, especially in the 
region of San Diego, Cal. Simultaneously there arose questions as to 
the possible eft'ect of the cutting of kelp upon the fisheries. Just 
before the close of the fiscal year it had been arranged to begin a 
study of the kelp fields and the method of harvesting with the view of 
securing definite information as to the relations of fish and shellfish 
to the kelp groves as they might be affected by the operations of 
harvesting. 

For two or three years the Bureau has been searching for suitsible 
supplies of hydroids, or the ''sea moss" of commerce, which had 
previously been imported from Europe in considerable quantities. 
The dyed product is used for decorative and millinery purposes, and 
the importations for the only year for which statistics are available 
(1909) amounted to more than 300,000 pounds, valued at $47,558. 
In connection with the survey of the Chesapeake Bay, considerable 
quantities were located at depths of 18 to 30 fathoms, and experiments 
were made to devise efficient methods of collecting. An experienced 
manufacturer accompanied the investigator on one of the cruises and 
pronounced the material of excellent quality. Further observations 
must be made to determine the seasons when the moss may be found 
in greatest abundance and highest quality. 

One ol the most serious handicaps upon the halibut fishery of the 
northwest coast is the occurrence of "mushy" halibut, which is 
especially characteristic of certain grounds and which begins to be 
noted in early summer, increasing in prevalence until the unmarketable 
fish form so large a proportion of the catch as to compel the abandon- 
ment of the fishery or the removal to other and less accessible grounds 
for the remainder of the season. Through the study of material 
supplied to a specialist in the employ of the Bureau, it has been 
ascertained that the "mushy" condition is caused by a minute 
protozoan parasite which multiplies abundantly and brings about 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF FISHERIES. 49 

a degeneration of the muscle tissue. As soon as it is possible to do 
so, the Bureau v/ill undertake a more extensive investigation in the 
field in order to learn the distribution of the parasite, the conditions 
that bring about its occasional increase in abundance, and any pos- 
sible method of remedy or control. 

The cooperative work with the State Geological and Natural 
History Survey of Wisconsin in an inquiry into the biological and 
physical conditions of life in inclosed waters has been continued. 
Progress has been made upon the reports of investigations of Lake 
Champlam and those of the lakes of Washington and Idaho. 

In response to a widespread interest in the subject of frog culture, 
evidenced by the daily receipt of inquiries for information and 
advice in the matter, there is in preparation a report dealing with 
the natural history of frogs. Field studies are also being conducted. 

An interesting test was made in connection with en experiment in 
rearing fresh-water mussels at the Fair port station. While the 
commercial mussels are native to rivers and not to still waters, some 
fishes which had been infected with the glochidia of mussels in the 
way ordinarily followed in practical operations were subsequently 
retained in floating crates and others were placed in station ponds. 
After two seasons of growth it was found possible to cut and finish 
buttons from the shells of these artificially propagated mussels. 
The rate of growth was much more rapid than had been expected. 
It is not assumed that mussels can be reared commercially m such 
waters, but the experunent is of interest and value as throwing 
light upon the nature of the results to be expected from the practical 
operation in public waters. 

While the Federal Government exercises no jurisdiction over the 
pollutions of waters as affecting fisheries, the Bureau can render a 
very practical service in the investigation of reported cases of pol- 
lution where the importance of the stream and the alleged extent 
ot the damage done is such as to warrant its taking cognizance of 
the matter. In some instances the reports are found to be without 
due foundation, while the agencies complained of are exercising all 
proper care. A report of the actual facts based upon a caretul 
and unprejudiced examination of conditions serves to allay suspi- 
cions and prevent the further existence of dissatisfaction. In other 
cases the conditions are observed to be as alleged, but abatement is 
effected through a clear and convmcing presentation of the facts to 
the offending parties, coupled with suggestions as to practicti reme- 
dies and an appeal for cooperation. Again, there may be encoun- 
tered those who are carelessly permitting industrial wastes to render 
a stream uninhabitable for the more desirable fishes and who are 
not amenable to reasonable suggestions. In such cases the findings 
of the Bureau can still serve a useful purpose in directing public 
attention to a wanton abuse and in reinforcing those who m;.y be 
interested to seek relief by process of law. The Bureau has within 
the year conducted a nurnber of investigations oi this kind and the 
reports have been placed as promptly as possible in the hands of 
the parties interested. 

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